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MOVIE REVIEW
Unicorn Boy

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Genre: Animation
Year Released: 2023
Runtime: 1h 30m
Director(s): Matt Kiel
Writer(s): Matt Kiel
Voice Cast: Matt Kiel, Patton Oswalt, Maria Bamford, Harold Perrineau, Michelle Trachtenberg, Parvesh Cheena, Sarah Natochenny, Katie Leclerc, Brett Davern, Beau Mirchoff, Sethward, Cindy Paola, Neil Garguilo
Where To Watch: 2023 Slamdance Film Festival Premiere. Screen this and more at Slamdance Film Festival


RAVING REVIEW: The animated feature, UNICORN BOY, is a visually stunning film that delves into the complexities of self-discovery and growth. The film tells the story of a young person who, like the creator, is going through a difficult time in life. The protagonist, a struggling artist, is transported to a magical land where they must team up with a new friend to defeat a mighty enemy and bring peace to the kingdom.


The animation style used in the film is unique, with vibrant colors and imaginative visuals that make it stand out. It is a passion project for the creator, Matt Kiel, who went through a personal journey during the animation process. The isolation and reflection brought on by the pandemic led to an "awakening" for Matt, where they gained a deeper understanding of themselves and their gender identity. The film is not just a story about heartbreak but also a powerful metaphor for one's journey of self-discovery.

One of the film's strengths is its ability to convey emotion through its animation. The film reflects the challenges that come with growth and self-discovery and is a must-watch for anyone who has gone through a difficult time and is looking for a unique and captivating story. The film is not just a surface-level story but also delves into deeper themes such as the complexities of first heartbreak and gender identity.

UNICORN BOY is a powerful reflection of the challenges that come with growth and self-discovery and is a must-watch for anyone looking for a unique and captivating story that delves into the complexities of self-discovery and growth. The film is a powerful parallel to the creator's life and how they’ve had to battle to figure out who they are and what life means because of it. The film's animation style is unique and imaginative, and the themes explored in the movie are universal and timeless.

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[photo courtesy of KIEL/GARGUILO PRODUCTION]